Hard slog for McIlroy at British Open

Rory McIlroy had a tough second round and is now well back of the leaders.

Associated Press

LYTHAM ST. ANNES, England (AP) -- Spraying drives left, right and straight into water-filled bunkers, it was another hard slog for Rory McIlroy at the British Open on Friday.

On a course that demands accuracy off the tee, McIlroy struggled to find a fairway in shooting a 5-under 75 that leaves him on 3-over 142 -- 13 strokes off the second-round lead.

He couldn't be further from the McIlroy who wowed the world of golf with his 8-shot victory at last year's U.S. Open.

The No. 2-ranked McIlroy says "it's just not quite happening."

McIlroy broke out a smile when he shook hands post-round with the teenage spectator he struck on the head with a tee shot in his first round. He provided a hotel room for the teen and money for a meal on Thursday.